Abstract: The control rate of total annual runoff in sponge city is significant and effective for the control of light or moderate rain resource. However, there is still a high risk of rain and flood disaster in the city in case of rainstorm or extreme rainfall events. First, we use a series of rainfall and disaster statistics over a century to demonstrate that it is impossible to control urban rain and flood disasters only by LID (Low Impact Development) measures. Then we summarize the urban flood response measures, including rainwater retention and infiltration plan and comprehensive water control measures in the Ishikari River basin. By analysing such measures in association with the successful experiences of sponge cities in China, we put forward the construction method of sponge cities by controlling flood runoff through multiple ways to enhance the potential of sponge city with Chinese characteristics in rain and flood disaster prevention and reduction.

Key words: sponge city, flood control and drainage, Ishikari river basin, flood storage pond, watershed nature, green space rate